Frenchton dogs are blended dogs, combining a Boston Terrier and a French Bulldog. They inherited the best traits of both their parents, including being sturdy, social, and playful. Frenchtons are also known as Frenchbos, Faux Frenchbos, and Frostons.
Despite their size, these endearing small dogs are good companions for families and apartment dwellers. French bulldogs and Boston terriers occupy high spots among U.S. dog breed rankings, but Frenchtons make a name for themselves and remain a relatively rare crossbreed in this country.
Frenchtons are brachycephalic, which means their faces are smooshy, and their snouts are short, so they’re not great at full-on sporty activities. Their fun-loving personalities and happy dispositions quickly turn any dog hater into a friend. A relaxed vibe and a very social personality make them prefer a relaxing afternoon at the park or a dog-friendly establishment to a jog in the neighborhood. This hybrid dog can be an entertaining pet for any family or home.
How Long Has Frenchtons been around?
French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers have been deliberately mixed throughout history to create a healthier French Bulldog, as several generations of inbreeding can damage the French Bulldog’s genes and health. It may not be possible to establish a history for mixed-breed dogs, but by understanding their purebred parents – French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers – you may be able to gain more insight into them.
Originally from the UK, French Bulldogs were developed to be smaller than English Bulldogs. In the past, many owners of French Bulldogs moved to France along with their adorable puppies. In 1886, they became a part of the American Kennel Club, and Americans found them just as charming as Europeans did.
Boston Terriers are associated with Boston, Massachusetts, but it is unclear where their ancestry originated before then. Frenchtons became popular as designer breeds in their early years, but some have ended up in shelters or with rescue organizations. Should you decide that this breed is right for you, you should consider adoption. French Bulldog and Boston Terrier rescues often take in mixed breed dogs and are willing to help rehome them.
What Do Frenchtons Look Like?
It is impossible to predict the appearance of Frenchton puppies, as it is with all mixed-breed dogs. Nevertheless, Frenchton dogs tend to have compact bodies, and their size is generally small. Despite looking like a slightly unathletic breed, they tend to be muscular and have a lively steep.
Frenchies weigh between 15 and 25 pounds, making them close in size to Boston Terriers. Their height is 11 to 15 inches, so they are similar in size to Frenchies also. There are two distinguishing features of Frenchies: their bat ears and their flat, dome-shaped skulls. The Boston native’s quizzical, intelligent gaze is also a defining characteristic of their tuxedo coat.
Since both Frenchies and Bostons have squished-up faces, a Frenchton is certain to inherit this characteristic.
Their coats tend to be short, shiny, and easy to care for, and they usually need brushing twice weekly. A variety of colors are available for these dogs, including white, black, red, blue, brown, or cream. It’s common for Frenchtons to have a mix of various colors on their coats.
There is not a lot of shedding on Boston terriers’ needle-like coats, but the smooth coats on Frenchies tend to shed more. As a result, a Frenchton might shed a little or a lot.
Health Issues Of Frenchtons
French Bulldogs are known for their health issues, and breeders may have mixed French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers in order to avoid these difficulties. There is no guarantee a Frenchton will be without health issues. However, since they are a hybrid breed, they may have fewer. The following health concerns may arise:
| Potential Health Issues |
|---|
| Luxating Patella: French Bulldogs are also prone to dislocating their kneecaps due to their size and shape. |
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Syndrome: Due to French Bulldogs’ small skull, Frenchton dogs may have breathing problems, but since the Boston Terrier part of the breed has a bigger skull, they are less likely to experience that. |
| Cherry Eye: When an eyelid becomes infected or injured, it causes a red, swollen eye. |
| Intertrigo: A rubbing motion causes inflammation of the skin. The Frenchton may develop wrinkles like Frenchie if they have wrinkles. |
| Atopic Dermatitis: A Frenchton dog is susceptible to allergies due to the Frenchie part of its DNA. |
| Perineal Hernia: Often caused by the size and shape of a French Bulldog, this condition results in the pelvic organs being displaced. |
| Intolerance to Heat: Known for their intolerance to heat, Frenchtons often suffer from breathing problems. It can be made worse by too much physical activity or walking. |
This is good news for frenchton owners as these health issues are often seen in purebred dogs. Despite being part Frenchie, Frenchtons are bred from a healthier dog, so their chances of developing these issues are reduced. In the event that your Frenchton shows signs of illness or injury, contact your veterinarian.
What Is A Frenchtons Temperament Like?
Fun-loving and known to be the center of attention, this mix is known for being a good companion dog.
An entertainer by nature, the Frenchton seeks out attention and loves to make people laugh. It is important to remember that they can be quite stubborn occasionally.
Therefore, it is important to start training them at a young age to avoid any problems in the future. While French Bulldogs aren’t known for barking, Boston Terriers do so that you may see some barking in your puppy. Exercise Requirements For Frenchtons?
Dogs like these mixed breeds prefer attention and affection from their owners, so they can become quite distressed if you leave them for long periods without any attention. This can lead to destructive behavior, especially during puppyhood.
Besides their snoring, they are remarkably quiet apart from the occasional bark! They are known for being fiercely loyal to their owners, staying close by them through thick and thin. While they get along with all people, their owners are their first love. The female is known for caring and protecting children, making her a fantastic family dog, as she blends seamlessly with the children.
Unlike other dog breeds, this breed does not understand household pets or other dogs. It is crucial to early socialize your dog to avoid this initial nervousness eliciting a negative reaction. Although small dogs bark more than they bite, they should be trained and socialized like any other dog.
Caring For Your Frenchton
Due to their short, sleek, low-maintenance coats than many other breeds. Nevertheless, you should brush them at least once a week. With a soft-bristle brush or a rubber grooming mitt, you can collect their loose hair and distribute their skin oil throughout the coat, keeping it healthy and shiny.
It is also necessary for Frenchtons to take a bath about once a month to prevent infections in those wrinkles on their smushy faces. The importance of regular nail trimming and good oral hygiene cannot be overstated. Periodontal disease is more prevalent in dogs with a brachycephalic shape, which means daily brushings and regular dental cleanings will help maintain their dental health.
Depending on their parents’ activity levels, Frenchton’s exercise needs may vary. The Boston Terrier is high-energy and needs a few walks a day, as well as playtime, while the Frenchie prefers an outdoor session or a short walk. A daily walk and a little playtime should suffice with Frenchies but keep the breed from overexerting itself in hot weather.
Purchasing a Frenchton
Frenchton dogs can be purchased from a breeder or adopted from a rescue organization. Considering how rare these pups are, obtaining one may take longer. Finding a responsible breeder or rescue and ensuring that your pup is healthy is the most important thing.
Breeders of Frenchtons are abundant, but there aren’t many Frenchtons available. Finding a reputable breeder is the biggest challenge. There is a breeder merit program at the AKC, where responsible breeders meet several requirements.
Breeders who make this list do not necessarily mean that they aren’t quality breeders. You can search the AKC database to determine if a breeder qualifies as an AKC breeder. A breeder’s website or a review site can also be used to research them. Don’t forget to ask the right questions when meeting a breeder. If you think you found your Frenchton, take note of these points and ask a breeder about them.
| Is the environment of the breeders clean? | What is the puppy’s reaction to visitors? |
| Is there a vaccine record? | Do you receive detailed information, and does the breeder ask you questions? |
| Are you feeling rushed by the breeder? | Does the breeder agree to sign the terms of the contract? |
You can also adopt a dog. Research is important once again. There may be crossbreed dogs, such as the Frenchton, up for adoption at your local rescue center or a French Bulldog Rescue. You save a life by adopting as well as typically save money when you adopt.
How much does a Frenchton puppy cost?
It is not uncommon to pay between $500 and $3,500 for a puppy. A lack of affordable options has led some owners to seek out Frenchton dog adoptions.
The parent French Bulldog usually carries the premium price tag since they are very difficult to breed due to their small hips. French Bulldog puppies are highly likely to be born via caesarian section since French Bulldogs are often artificially inseminated. These procedures are costly, and puppies are often produced in small litters, making them more expensive.
What is the lifespan of a Frenchton dog?
It is one area where the Frenchton outperforms the French Bulldog regarding life expectancy. Generally, Frenchtons live 11 to 15 years. Frenchton’s can live a little longer than French Bulldogs. The Frenchton dog lives on average 1 or 2 years longer than the Frenchie. In some cases, Frenchtons who have maintained a healthy diet and exercise routine have lived longer than 15 years.
How smart are Frenchtons?
This breed is very clever and intelligent, learning tricks and commands quickly. They are primarily motivated by food, however. Hence, before you put them through the paces of sitting, lying down, and staying, you should make sure you prepare their favorite treats.
Frenchtons can be a bit stubborn sometimes due to their French Bulldog heritage. Thus, owners of Frenchtons who wish to teach them specific commands must remain patient and consistent. Punishment and yelling are not their favorite things. The Frenchton appreciate being rewarded positively while they learn and are told praise words.
Can Frenchtons hike?
Are brachycephalic dogs able to hike? Yes. However, Frenchton puppies will struggle to hike more than full-grown Frenchton dogs. Frenchtons with diabetes, heart murmurs, seizure histories, and other known medical conditions may not be able to hike.
Are Frenchtons good with cats?
Frenchton people tend to be good with cats as long as you introduce them slowly and carefully. Even though every dog and cat is different, there is no reason why an older cat cannot get along with an early Frenchton puppy.
How many puppies do Frenchtons have?
Average: 3 puppies
Typically, Frenchtons have 2 to 5 puppies in a litter. Litters larger than five are extremely rare and are delivered via section most of the time.
How big do Frenchtons get?
Frenchtons are usually bigger and taller than Frenchies since they are mixed with Boston Terriers. They can grow up to 20 inches long in males and up to 16 inches long in females.
Frenchtons can reach a height of 16 inches. That compares to the average height of a Frenchie, which is no more than 11 inches. Frenchton dogs can grow up to 25 pounds / 11 kilos in weight. Frenchtons have the strength and stamina of French bulldogs, while Boston Terriers have longer legs and height.
Do Frenchtons have tails?
While Frenchtons have tails, too, many of them will be quite short and stumpy, as they have Boston and Frenchie ancestry. While it’s not always the case, Frenchton puppies are born with short tails, sometimes not even covering their bottoms.
Another common misconception is that Frenchton dogs have their tails docked and trimmed. It is not the case, but it is understandable why people need to know how short the tails are. As a result of breeding and heritage, Frenchton tails are short.
When are Frenchtons fully grown?
It takes between 9 and 12 months for Frenchtons to reach their full-grown size. Even so, they will continue to bulk up and gain muscle after that, with a larger weight gain the following year. A Frenchton has reached its optimum size and weight by age two. Maintaining good health requires them to exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.
Do Frenchtons bark?
Some Frenchtons bark a lot, and some don’t. This can be attributed to their crossbreeding. The Boston Terrier can be a big barker, but most French Bulldogs do not bark much. It’s a lottery if you get a barking Frenchton when you combine the two breeds.
Frenchies will usually not bark until they hear the doorbell, are scared, or are playing. The only way to know if your dog barks at anything is to get one and see for yourself.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a low-maintenance dog who loves meeting new people and adventuring but can just as easily curl up on the couch at home with you, this pet is perfect. Because Frenchtons need very little specialist care, they are low maintenance in grooming, feeding, and exercising. Despite this, they can be very destructive if they are not given the attention they need. As a result, this breed may not be suitable for someone away from home for extended periods.
